Garlic
Garlic Scapes - A Springtime Treat
Allium is the scientific name for the garlic/onion/leek/chive family, and is derived from the classical Latin alium meaning “garlic.” “Scapes” are the flower stalks found on certain members of the allium family.
Garlic scapes, which only appear on the finest hard neck garlic varieties, curl upward as they grow, ultimately straighten, and then grow little seed-like bulbs. A young scape makes one or two loops before straightening out, and then develops seeds. By snipping off the scapes before the seeds develop, more energy goes into making a bigger garlic bulb.
When the garlic scapes are still in full curl, they are tender and delicious. They have a taste that is milder than the garlic cloves, and have a broad spectrum of uses from soup to salads to garnishes. The garlic scape is an allium delicacy that is highly prized and traditionally used in Southern, Eastern European, and Korean cuisine because of its subtle garlic flavor and tender-crisp texture.
Storage:
Garlic scapes store well. You can keep batches in the refrigerator for upwards of three weeks, though fresh-cut is always the best. Remove the entire stalk tip above the pod before using.
Preparation:
Scapes tend to get tough and/or loose flavor if overcooked, so start simple. To learn how much cooking is enough and how much is too much, cut scapes to desired lengths and sauté in a little olive oil over medium heat, adding salt and pepper to taste. The end result should be a side dish that is elegant and tasty. Try some of these other ideas:
Garlic scapes can be used almost like asparagus.
Cut scapes into 2-inch lengths and sauté in olive oil or butter over medium heat, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Add scapes to your favorite stir-fry dishes.
Chop and add raw to salads.
Add to pickled beets or cucumbers.
Steam and dress with a bit of lemon juice.
Use as a garnish.
Make garlic scape pesto (see recipe).
Slice and sprinkle over any pasta.
Slice and add to most any sauce.
Chop and add to guacamole or fresh salsa.
Chop and mix with softened cream cheese or butter for a unique spread for sandwiches or bagels.
Use chopped fresh scapes as a garnish for tomato or potato soup.
Add chopped scapes to vegetable soups and stews toward the end of cooking time.
Use in recipes as a substitute for green onions.
Add to toppings for bruschetta or pizza.
Place in lightly oiled pan and add salt to taste. Cover and roast for 30 to 45 minutes until beginning to turn brown. Serve as a side dish.
Add to egg dishes or mashed potatoes.
Garlic scapes are also beautiful. If you can’t get your kids to eat them, they can wear garlic scape bracelets!
Sources: www.mariquita.com, www.dakotagarlic.com, and www.moscowfoodcoop.com.